Systemischer Lupus erythematodes bei Pferden Titelbild

Systematic Lupus Erthematosus (SLE)

Seek veterinary advice before applying any treatment

Equine systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a polysystemic auto-immune disease with multiple and variable signs in several or many organs or structures. It is associated with the production of autoantibodies that are reactive with nuclear, cytoplasmic, and cell membrane antigens and presents itself as a generalized skin disease, accompanied by antiglobulin-positive anaemia. The disease is remarkable insofar as affected horses may be almost totally hairless.

Symptoms

Treatment

Glucocorticoids at immunosuppressive dosages are indicated for treatment. Topical glucocorticoids and topical 0.1% tacrolimus are also tried in more localized cases. SLE cases can be more difficult to treat and many horses are euthanized due to a lack of response.

Prevention

Equine systemic lupus erythematosus is not a preventable disease.

How Happie can help you manage your horse's health

Happie Horse App digitale Gesundheitsakte

Digital health management offers numerous benefits in modern equine healthcare.

With the Happie Horse App, you can track symptom patterns and body values, such as Temperature, Pulse and Respiration. Allowing you to notice abnormal changes in body and behaviour early on, leading to more successful treatments.

The Happie symptom checker allows you to add all of your horse's abnormal symptoms in order to present potential causes and diseases.

Related articles

Addison's disease in horses is a rare endocrine disorder where the adrenal glands fail to produce enough cortisol and aldosterone, resulting in lethargy, weight loss, and electrolyte imbalances.
Immune System

Addison Disease

Addison Disease This disease is life-threatening and should be treated by a veterinarian swiftly. Addison’s disease, also known as hypoadrenocorticism,

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in horses is an autoimmune disease causing widespread inflammation affecting skin, joints, and organs.
Immune System

Systematic Lupus Erthematosus (SLE)

Systematic Lupus Erthematosus (SLE) Seek veterinary advice before applying any treatment Equine systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a polysystemic auto-immune

Allergy in horses refers to an exaggerated immune response to certain substances, leading to symptoms such as itching, hives, and respiratory distress
Immune System

Allergies in Horses

Equine Allergy Seek veterinary advice before applying any treatment An allergy is an exaggerated response from the immune system to